Those most at risk from Covid-19 have started to receive their Autumn Booster jabs within care homes this week.
On 5 September the Autumn Booster programme launched with the aim to ensure everyone who is eligible has a Covid-19 booster vaccination as well as a flu vaccination ahead of the winter period.
This week residents and members of staff in care homes are being prioritised for their Covid-19 booster and flu jabs. On the day that the programme launched (6 September), vaccination teams were at The Manor Residential Care Home in Arnold vaccinating both residents and staff members.
From next week (Monday 12 September) Frontline health and social care workers, over 75s and those who have a weakened immune system will be able to receive their vaccinations and will be receiving invites in the next few days to book either via nhs.uk or by calling 119.
Then over the following weeks, all adults aged 50 and over, those aged five and over in a clinical risk group – for instance with an underlying health condition that makes them more at risk of serious illness from Covid – household contacts of people whose immune systems are supressed and people aged 16 and over who are carers will all be able to book an appointment.
Jessica Waterhouse, Vaccination Service Locality Manager, said: “It is fantastic that we have been able to kick start the Autumn Booster programme by vaccinating the most vulnerable people in our communities against the virus. By making sure those who are most at-risk have topped up their immunity we are not only protecting them, but we are also protecting our NHS ahead of Winter.
“This Winter we expect to see flu and Covid-19 in circulation together and this could have severe consequences for our services and for the public who fall unwell. When you are invited for your Autumn Booster and flu vaccine, we would strongly recommend you take up the offer to make sure you have the best possible protection. Covid-19 has not gone away, and it is important we protect ourselves as soon as possible.”
In Nottingham and Nottinghamshire there are plenty of sites offering vaccinations to the public making it more convenient than ever for people to get their jabs.
As with previous Covid-19 vaccinations you will receive an invitation as you become eligible for a vaccination and the NHS will let you know when you become eligible. Please don’t contact the NHS for an appointment until you have been invited.